Consider for a moment how a house can embody an entire design philosophy. That’s precisely what the F. F. Tomek House does. Right here in Riverside, Illinois, this historic house stands as a testament to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie School design.
The F. F. Tomek House is also known as the Ship House. Some call it the Ferdinand Frederick and Emily Tomek House. Whatever name you prefer, it remains a remarkable example of architectural innovation. Designed in 1904, its construction finished in 1906. The Tomek House showcases the early development of the Prairie style. This style later reached its peak in Wright’s famed Robie House.
Imagine Ferdinand Frederick Tomek, a man who worked in a factory producing picture frames. He commissioned Wright to create a home. The Tomeks lived here until 1924. Wright designed not only the house but also its furniture.
Notice the low, expansive hipped roofs. They temper any sense of verticality. A dramatic cantilevered roof projects over the breakfast nook. It creates the illusion of horizontal breadth. Two piers are surmounted with large geometric planters.
Take a closer look at the windows. The patterns reference Japanese bamboo curtains. These are similar to those in the Cheney House. The windows echo the linear arrangements of dark wood trim. This trim graces both the interior and exterior. Amber-colored glass illuminates the dining room through a skylight.
In 1909, George Mann Niedecken decorated the interior. He designed curtains, chairs, and other furnishings. This enhanced Wright’s vision.
Barry Byrne served as the assistant architect for the Tomek House. It served as a model for the Robie House. The F. F. Tomek House is an important artifact. It shows the evolution of Wright’s Prairie School design.
The F. F. Tomek House is part of the Riverside Historic District. In 1999, it was declared a National Historic Landmark. This recognized its national significance. The house has been extensively restored, preserving its original beauty. So, as you stand before the F. F. Tomek House, remember its place in architectural history. It embodies Frank Lloyd Wright’s vision. It is a testament to the Prairie School’s enduring appeal.